Kota Bharu: A total of 264 telecommunications towers that were affected by the floods in Kelantan have been restored, said Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil. He stated that the towers are now back in operation and their functions will continue to be improved.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fahmi emphasized the importance of site hardening as a potential improvement. He requested a study be conducted to assess the necessity of implementing site hardening, particularly in areas prone to flooding, and urged preventive measures before October. Fahmi mentioned October as the preparation season for the Northeast Monsoon, highlighting the need for proactive steps before the season begins.

Fahmi’s comments came after inspecting a telecommunications tower in Kampung Jubakar Pantai that was affected by the recent flood. He also directed the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to organize a workshop with network service providers and Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) to identify potentially at-risk tower locations that have not historically been affected by floods.

He cited Tumpat as an example, where flooding had not previously occurred but was impacted by the recent flood. Fahmi suggested that MCMC and telecommunications companies conduct a simulation workshop to evaluate the possible impact of rising water levels on tower areas, noting the high costs associated with replacing equipment and upgrading affected towers.

Fahmi called for exploring more sustainable and resilient solutions, such as using alternative technologies like solar energy in areas lacking electricity. He also mentioned that new technologies currently being tested in pilot projects could be considered for future implementation.